You show up for everyone else but don’t forget to show up for yourself.
There is a reason (there’s always a reason) why you haven’t done what you needed to for yourself. Whether you are raising children, building a career, helping others, there is always some reason why you push yourself into the background.
When we don’t look after ourselves, we deplete our stores. We also begin to think we aren’t worth the effort. Eventually, with time we take less and less care of ourselves, and we begin to see ourselves as not necessary. The opposite is true; you are vitally important.
If you want to continue to serve others, you have to put yourself at the top of your priority list. You need to make yourself ‘priority number one.’ Many think this is being selfish, but that is not true.
By taking care of yourself, you are being responsible. You are making sure you are in the best state possible for others. People will get more from you and be better off when you are at your best.
You will be able to do more. Your mindset will shift, your energy levels will shift, and your emotional state will improve. You will be a happier, healthier and more vibrant person.
People will ask you your secret, and you’ll be able to tell them that you took care of yourself first. Many may not understand what that means, so you’ll have to explain it to them. The best way to do this is by using the oxygen mask on the airplane example.
If you aren’t making time for yourself, rearrange your schedule. You must plan time for you in your plan, even if you start with only a few minutes a day and then grow from there. To start, try setting aside thirty minutes a day just for yourself.
You may be listing all the reasons why this isn’t possible in your head. I want you to stop and list all the ways it is. Get up half an hour earlier, take the time after the kids go to bed, take time during your lunch hour, just find the time for yourself.
Use the time to do something good for yourself. Something that will make you smile and feel better. It can be exercise, painting, reading, learning, almost anything.
Take the time to figure out how you can become the best version of yourself and then identify the steps needed to get you there. Next, start one step at a time.
This change doesn’t mean you can’t show up for others. It means you show up for yourself first.
Free inspirational or motivational posts can be found on the inspirational page of my website.